Universal to Add 3,500 Jobs, as Florida Enjoys Record Tourism
Friday, February 14, 2014
By: Amy Green

February 14, 2014 | WMFE Orlando - Universal Studios Orlando says it will add 3,500 new jobs in 2014. It's part of multiple expansions at Universal and comes on the back of a record year of tourism for Florida.

[Photo: Rendering of Diagon Alley. Courtesy Universal.]

Universal is constructing the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. It's also adding a new hotel and expanding its CityWalk entertainment complex.

Duncan Dickson of the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management says jobs add up quick when theme parks expand.

"You have to add in seven days a week, two shifts a day. You have to add in the nighttime people and maintenance and custodial, park services. So you have a huge multiplier effect."

Gov. Rick Scott announced the jobs at Universal. He also said 2013 was a record year for Florida tourism with nearly 95 million visitors to the state.